Best 80s Songs About Dreams
The 1980s was a golden era for music, filled with creativity and exploration. Many artists in this decade turned their attention to the mysterious and alluring theme of dreams. From iconic ballads to upbeat tracks, songs about dreams captured the imagination of listeners, making them a significant part of the decade’s musical tapestry.
Why are 80s songs about dreams still so memorable and impactful today? These songs resonated because they tapped into universal themes of hope, imagination, and introspection. By exploring dreamscapes, these tracks offered listeners an escape and a reflection of personal aspirations. The unique soundscapes from this era continue to influence music lovers and artists alike.
1. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics
The iconic track “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics was a significant hit in the 1980s. Released as part of their second studio album, also called Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This), the song became a defining anthem of the decade. It topped charts worldwide, highlighting the duo’s synth-pop sound combined with Annie Lennox’s powerful vocals.
- Song Name: “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”
- Album Name: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)
- Release Date: January 21, 1983
Why we included this song on the list
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” captures the essence of the 1980s music era. Its catchy melody and distinct electronic beat set it apart from other songs of the time. The song’s exploration of ambition and human desire resonates with many listeners, making it a timeless classic that continues to influence music.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
The song was the first major hit for Eurythmics in the United States, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It was famously recorded in a small studio in England, showcasing the duo’s resourcefulness. The track’s signature riff was created by David A. Stewart using a synthesizer, giving it a unique sound that remains popular today.
2. “Dreams” – Fleetwood Mac
- Song Name: Dreams
- Album: Rumours
- Release Date: 1977
Why we included this song on the list:
“Dreams” is a standout track from Fleetwood Mac’s iconic album, Rumours. The song is notable for its soothing melody and introspective lyrics. Written by Stevie Nicks, it captures the emotional tension within the band at the time. Its timeless appeal has ensured its place as a classic in the rock genre.
Interesting or fun facts about the song:
The song was written during a period of personal upheaval among the band members. Stevie Nicks wrote it alone in a short amount of time. Despite its simplicity, “Dreams” became Fleetwood Mac’s only song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. In recent years, it gained newfound popularity thanks to a viral video.
3. “Dream On” – Aerosmith
“Dream On” is a classic song by Aerosmith that has captured the hearts of many since its release. The song comes from Aerosmith’s self-titled debut album, which came out in 1973. Although it wasn’t an immediate hit, it became one of the band’s most iconic songs over time.
- Song name: Dream On
- Album: Aerosmith
- Release date: 1973
Why we included this song on the list
“Dream On” is a powerful anthem about not giving up on dreams and aspirations. The song features Steven Tyler’s impressive vocals and a memorable melody that makes it stand out. Its timeless message and emotional impact make it a perfect addition to a list focused on songs about dreams from the 80s era.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
Steven Tyler wrote most of “Dream On” when he was a teenager, which is impressive considering the song’s depth. The song was included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll, highlighting its lasting influence. Also, “Dream On” was one of the first songs where Tyler played the piano in concert.
4. “Don’t Dream It’s Over” – Crowded House
“Don’t Dream It’s Over” by Crowded House remains a standout anthem from the 1980s. Released in 1986, it features Neil Finn’s heartfelt songwriting and memorable melody. The song is a part of their self-titled debut album and gained international success, reaching high positions on various music charts.
- Song name: Don’t Dream It’s Over
- Album name: Crowded House
- Release date: 1986
Why we included this song on the list:
This track is renowned for its hopeful yet melancholic message, capturing the spirit of perseverance and resilience. Its timeless appeal and the emotional connection it creates with listeners make it a quintessential 1980s song about dreams.
Interesting or fun facts about the song:
During production, the album was accidentally slowed down, contributing to the song’s unique, slightly melancholic feel. Producer Mitchell Froom added an organ solo, choosing not to adapt it into a typical power ballad of the era. Neil Finn’s engaging storytelling and the song’s lasting impact helped define a post-New Wave era in pop music, solidifying its place in music history.
You can read more about it on a website covering the story behind “Don’t Dream It’s Over”.
5. “These Dreams” – Heart
- Song Name: These Dreams
- Album: Heart
- Release Date: January 18, 1986
“These Dreams” by Heart is a quintessential 80s song that channels the era’s musical vibe with its lush, synth-driven sound. It marked a turning point in Heart’s career, being their first track to hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s dreamlike quality and relatable lyrics resonate with the hope and introspection found in dreams.
Why we included this song on the list
Heart successfully captured the mood and style of the mid-80s with “These Dreams.” Its success demonstrated the band’s ability to innovate with a softer, more polished sound. The song’s ability to convey emotions that are both personal and universal makes it a standout track from the decade.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
“These Dreams” was written by Martin Page and Bernie Taupin. The song was initially offered to Kim Carnes, but she passed on it as it didn’t suit her vocal range. The song’s inclusion in Heart’s album led to a shift in their musical direction. This track helped the album achieve significant commercial success, earning platinum status multiple times.
6. “Dreams in the Dark” – Badlands
“Dreams in the Dark” is a powerful rock song by the American band, Badlands. It showcases the band’s signature style that blends hard rock with blues influences. Released in 1989, it was a defining track in their debut album, highlighting the unique sound Badlands brought to the rock scene of the late ’80s.
- Song name: Dreams in the Dark
- Album: Badlands
- Release date: 1989
Why we included this song on the list
This song earned a spot on the list due to its distinct and captivating melodies. Its commercial success placed it on the Billboard charts, making it one of the band’s most recognized songs. The track’s strong guitar work and catchy lyrics resonated with many listeners, capturing the essence of the ’80s rock genre.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
“Dreams in the Dark” was the only song from Badlands that charted on Billboard, reflecting its widespread appeal. The band also released a music video that received airplay on MTV, further increasing its popularity. The song was co-written by vocalist Ray Gillen and guitarist Jake E. Lee, showcasing their talent and collaboration.
For more details on the band’s history and influence, visit the Wikipedia page on Badlands. Additionally, find a review of the song on Classic Rock History’s top 10 Badlands songs.
7. “Talking in Your Sleep” – The Romantics
The Romantics released “Talking in Your Sleep” as part of their fourth album. This track gained significant attention due to its catchy melody and memorable lyrics. It became their most successful single in the United States, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- Song Name: Talking in Your Sleep
- Album Name: In Heat
- Release Date: September 1983
Why we included this song on the list
“Talking in Your Sleep” perfectly captures the essence of 1980s pop rock. Its theme revolves around secrets revealed while dreaming, which ties into the broader concept of dreams. The song’s blend of new wave and rock elements made it appealing to a wide audience.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
The music video for “Talking in Your Sleep” became a staple on MTV in late 1983. Its popularity extended beyond the United States, with later releases in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the UK. Despite being The Romantics’ only Top 10 hit in the US, it remains a favorite among fans of 1980s music.
8. “Silent Lucidity” – Queensrÿche
“Silent Lucidity” is a standout track by Queensrÿche. It features on their album Empire, released in 1991. The song was recorded at the height of the band’s popularity.
- Song Name: Silent Lucidity
- Album: Empire
- Release Date: 1991
Why we included this song on the list
“Silent Lucidity” is an insightful ballad exploring dreams and consciousness. The song’s orchestral arrangement and soothing melody made it a huge success. It offers listeners a comforting experience, with themes of lucid dreaming.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
“Silent Lucidity” achieved commercial success, reaching the Top 10 in several countries. It was also nominated for a Grammy Award. The song’s unique sound fuses rock with orchestral elements, setting it apart from typical rock ballads. Fans often appreciate the calming vibe and its reflective lyrics, which continue to resonate today.
9. “Dream Warriors” – Dokken
“Dream Warriors” is a song by American band Dokken. It was written by George Lynch and Jeff Pilson for the horror movie A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors. The song was released as a single in 1987 and is part of Dokken’s album Back for the Attack.
- Song Name: Dream Warriors
- Album: Back for the Attack
- Release Date: 1987
Why we included this song on the list
“Dream Warriors” stands out for its connection to the iconic horror film series. The track not only showcases Dokken’s signature hard rock style but also complements the eerie and thrilling atmosphere of the film. Its appeal is rooted in both the music and the nostalgia associated with its movie tie-in.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
“Dream Warriors” reached number 22 on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, highlighting its popularity during the time of its release. The song contributed to the band’s success and was included in their greatest hits collection in 2019. This track helped solidify Dokken’s place in the ’80s rock scene, blending catchy riffs with a memorable chorus.
10. “All I Have to Do Is Dream” – The Everly Brothers
- Song name: All I Have to Do Is Dream
- Name of the album: The Everly Brothers’ Best
- Release date: 1958
Why we included this song on the list
Though released in the 1950s, “All I Have to Do Is Dream” remained popular in the 1980s for its timeless appeal and dreamy theme. The Everly Brothers’ harmonies and the song’s soothing melody fit perfectly with the dream-inspired theme of the list. Its ongoing influence makes it a worthy inclusion.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
The song was written by Boudleaux Bryant, half of the husband-and-wife songwriting team with Felice Bryant. It reached No. 1 on both the US and UK charts and stayed at the top in the US for five weeks. Rolling Stone ranked it No. 141 on its list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Cultural Impact of 80s Songs About Dreams
Songs about dreams during the 1980s played a significant role in music and pop culture. These tracks brought a new focus on imaginative and introspective themes, influencing fashion, movies, and other artistic expressions.
Rise of Dream Themes in Music
In the 1980s, music about dreams became popular due to its ability to resonate with audiences seeking escapism. Bands like Eurythmics delivered iconic tracks such as “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”. This song used synth-driven sounds to create a mesmerizing atmosphere that matched its introspective lyrics.
Musicians explored themes beyond just sleep, like ambition and longing. This shift allowed artists to express emotions and ideas in a way that connected deeply with listeners. The era’s technology, like synthesizers, helped craft a dream-like sound, enhancing these themes further.
Influence on 80s Pop Culture
Dream-inspired songs also shaped 80s pop culture significantly. These tracks influenced fashion, often seen in music videos where artists embraced surreal and bold styles. Artists like Annie Lennox of Eurythmics wore striking outfits and hairstyles, impacting the fashion trends of the time.
The themes discussed in these songs also made their way into movies and television, inspiring visual storytelling that mirrored the dream-like quality found in music. This cross-pollination allowed the dream themes to reach broader audiences, reinforcing their cultural footprint and making them a memorable part of the 1980s.
Recurring Themes and Motifs
Dreams in 80s songs often serve as metaphors for aspirations, struggles, and fantasies. The music commonly blends different styles to enhance the dreamlike atmosphere and emotional depth.
Symbolism of Dreams in Lyrics
In 80s music, dreams frequently symbolize both hope and escape. Songs such as “Dream On” by Aerosmith convey perseverance, urging listeners to pursue their dreams amidst life’s challenges. Similarly, “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics explores the pursuit of desires and the mysterious nature of dreams. These themes resonate with many due to their universal appeal, tapping into shared human experiences.
Lyrically, dreams often represent a duality: they offer a refuge from reality’s hardships while also highlighting a longing for a better future. The use of vivid imagery and metaphor enhances the listener’s connection to the artist’s vision. Whether it’s dreaming of success or personal fulfillment, the 80s songs create a narrative that is both personal and relatable, drawing listeners into a world of infinite possibilities.
Musical Styles Associated with Dream Themes
Musical styles in dream-themed 80s songs often include synthesizers and melodic sequences that create a surreal, ethereal ambiance. The Eurythmics’ “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” uses synthesizers to establish a hypnotic sound, setting the stage for its exploration of dreams and ambitions. Meanwhile, the use of rock elements in “Dream On” gives it a powerful, uplifting feel that mirrors the determination described in its lyrics.
This blend of styles was innovative for its time, allowing artists to experiment with sound and create music that felt both groundbreaking and timeless. These musical elements help convey the dream themes, adding layers of emotion and resonance to the songs. Whether through the haunting melodies or energetic riffs, the music serves as a vessel for the lyrical content, enhancing the listener’s journey through the dreamlike narratives.
